The Value of Cycle Tourism

Transform Scotland has published a report on the benefits of cycle tourism in Scotland. Authored by Ivan Zovko, the report showcases the many positive aspects of promoting cycle tourism, including significant economic benefits for the Scottish economy.

The report finds the total value of cycle tourism — by residents and visitors, touring and leisure cycling — in Scotland is up to £239m per year.

As well as making rural communities more vibrant and contributing to local economies, cycle tourism is also good for public health and for the environment.

The report focusses on the economic benefits:

The total economic contribution from cycle tourism is estimated to be between £117.2m and £239m. These figures are the monetised benefits from health, leisure cycle events, cycle-related infrastructure, and expenditure by leisure cyclists.

Businesses that cater to the cycle tourism industry (accommodation, restaurants and cafes, cycle tour operators, bike shops) have noticed an increase in leisure cyclists. In responding to a survey they identified leisure cyclists as a valuable customer base.

Amongst other things, the report recommends:

Promotion of Scotland as a top destination for cycle tourism.

Development of themed areas for cycle tourism, for example whisky tours by bike.

The promotion of cycle tourism to a wider demographic.

More collaborative partnership between local and regional stakeholders.

Greater centralisation of information and technology integration.

Better data collection and monitoring.

A single coordinating body for leisure cycle tourism with links to the private sector.

The full report and the executive summary version, which were produced in partnership with Sustrans Scotland, can both be downloaded from the right-hand menu.